The Rosario badge was not summoned for the October double date after sustaining an injury in a Champions League clash.
Following victories in their first two matches of the 2026 South American Qualifiers, Argentina aims to keep the winning run alive against Paraguay and Peru. Yet one of the team’s most influential figures will be missing from the squad.
The world champions host Albirroja at the More monumentalon on October 12, and five days later they will travel to Lima to face the Inca side.
When does the national team play? The world champions’ 2023 schedule
LUCIANO DI MARÍA’S EXCLUSION
The veteran forward known as Fideo was not included by Lionel Scaloni in the squad after suffering a grade I muscle injury on October 3 during the Inter Milan versus Benfica match, a Group D UEFA Champions League encounter. Eighty minutes into the game, as he walked toward the sideline, he felt a sharp pull and requested a substitution to prevent further damage.
His absence creates a noticeable gap for Argentina as they pursue continued success on both the continental and world stages. The plans for the squad had to adapt quickly to the setback, with the coaching staff focusing on options to maintain balance and intensity across key positions.
The Argentina setup has long benefited from Di María’s versatility, experience, and ability to unlock compact defenses with precision. In his stead, the team is likely to lean on a combination of established teammates and emerging talents to sustain the attacking threat and the high-pressing style that has become a hallmark of their play. The coaching staff will also emphasize tactical discipline and cohesion to ensure results stay on track despite the absence of a player who brings both creativity and leadership on the field.
Fans and analysts will be watching how the squad adapts to these changes, particularly in the forward line and in the midfield where control and tempo will be crucial for breaking down stubborn defensive setups. The upcoming fixtures against Paraguay and Peru will test the depth of the squad and provide opportunities for younger players to showcase their abilities on the international stage.
As the calendar moves forward, Argentina will be mindful of maintaining row consistency, physical readiness, and strategic flexibility. The aim remains clear: to translate domestic form and international experience into positive results for their supporters across North America and beyond. The team’s approach will continue to emphasize collective effort, tactical intelligence, and the patience to build momentum over the course of the qualifying campaign. [citation: official match calendars and recent squad updates, attributed to team staff and federation communications]
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